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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 1, 2026

Testing of all Six Semicircular Canals with Video Head Impulse Test Systems

Testing of all Six Semicircular Canals with Video Head Impulse Test Systems

Published on: April 18, 2019

Nystagmus and saccadic intrusions.

Matthew J Thurtell¹, R John Leigh

¹Departments of Neurology and Daroff-Dell'Osso Laboratory, Veterans Affairs Medical Center and University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.

Handbook of Clinical Neurology

|May 24, 2011

Summary

This review explains nystagmus and saccadic oscillations by examining how impaired gaze-holding mechanisms cause these involuntary eye movements. It covers evaluation, causes, and treatments for various ocular oscillations.

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Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Neurology
Neuroscience

Background:

Nystagmus and saccadic oscillations are involuntary eye movements that can impair vision and indicate underlying neurological or vestibular dysfunction.
Understanding the pathophysiology of these ocular oscillations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

To provide a comprehensive pathophysiological review of nystagmus and saccadic oscillations.
To outline the clinical and laboratory evaluation of patients presenting with ocular oscillations.
To summarize current understanding of the pathogenesis and treatment of various types of nystagmus and saccadic disorders.

Main Methods:

Systematic review of current concepts and literature on nystagmus and saccadic oscillations.
Pathophysiological approach to understanding the mechanisms underlying ocular oscillations.
Categorization of nystagmus based on etiology: vestibular disorders, gaze-holding deficits, visual compromise, and poorly understood forms.
Review of saccadic disorders, including intrusions, flutter, and opsoclonus.
Summary of available treatment options: pharmacological, surgical, and optical.

Main Results:

Nystagmus arises from impaired gaze-holding mechanisms, affecting steady gaze.
Ocular oscillations are systematically reviewed based on their origin (peripheral/central vestibular, neural integrator, visual compromise).
Includes discussion of acquired pendular nystagmus, congenital nystagmus, and saccadic disorders like opsoclonus.
Treatment strategies encompass medications, surgical interventions, and optical aids.

Conclusions:

A pathophysiological framework aids in understanding the diverse causes of nystagmus and saccadic oscillations.
Comprehensive evaluation is key to diagnosing the underlying cause of ocular oscillations.
A range of treatments are available, offering therapeutic options for patients with these challenging conditions.